Being an early childhood provider is not just “babysitting”. Early Educators are professionals. Children in early childhood classrooms benefit greatly when their teachers participate in professional development activities that expand and increase their knowledge and skills. Research shows that children that are exposed to quality early childhood education will become life long learners.
The Children’s Resource Center can help early educators with the many professional development choices available in our region. We will be glad to help write a professional development plan and help set goals for the future.
Below you will find links to assist you in supporting your professional development goals.
Link to:
- North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education
- North Carolina Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development
- NC Early Childhood Certification
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
- North Carolina Child Care Resource and Referral Council
- Childcare Services Association
- Childcare Resources, Inc.
- Southwestern Child Development Commission
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
All 58 schools in the North Carolina Community College System offer child care related coursework leading to an Associates Degree (AAS) in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Some colleges also offer a Certificate and/or Diploma in ECE before the AAS. Click here to find a community college near you
- Catawba Valley Community College
- University of North Carolina is composed of 17 different campuses throughout the state.
- Appalachian Center at Hickory Appalachian State University
DISTANCE LEARNING
- North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education approved distance learning list
- Stanley Community College (offers Early Childhood Associate Degree)
- North Carolina University online degrees
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
There are a variety of resources offering financial assistance for early childhood professional development. Among them are:
- T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education And Compensation Helps) Early Childhood® Project
- College Foundation of North Carolina